Published: 3:25 PM, 11/13/2009

Last updated: 12:52 PM, 11/17/2009

The Watauga County Public Library is offering delinquent patrons an opportunity for redemption.
The library will hold its annual Amnesty Week Monday through Saturday, Dec. 7 through 12. Those who have amassed overdue fines  can wipe the slate clean by bringing in cans of food to help those in need.
Each can of food will cancel $1 of overdue fines and will apply only to overdue fines. Patrons can donate enough cans to totally eradicate their laggard fiduciary commitment, or they can donate one or two cans and make a dent in the debt. The library will donate all food items to the Hunger Coalition.
Adult services librarian Evelyn Johnson said canned pet food can also apply, with the donations going to the Watauga Humane Society. She said the cans should be in good shape and not past the expiration date.
The applicable fines can be for books, videos, CDs, DVDs or any other library materials. The offer is also valid for those who have already returned late items but haven't paid the overdue fines yet. However, the canned-goods reimbursement isn't available for the repayment of lost materials.
Erasing the deficit can help people get back in the good graces at the check-out desk. People with $10 or more in fines are unable to check out additional materials.
Each year, the library collects more than 500 cans of food through the program.
The Watauga Library is located on the corner of Queen and Depot streets near downtown Boone. For more information about amnesty week call the library at (828) 264-8784.

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